CO₂ Conversion Toward Real‐World Applications: Electrocatalysis versus CO₂ Batteries

Abstract Electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO₂) conversion technologies have become new favorites for addressing environmental and energy issues, especially with direct electrocatalytic reduction of CO₂ (ECO₂RR) and alkali metal‐CO₂ (M–CO₂) batteries as representatives. They are poised to create new economic drivers while also paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future for humanity. Although still far from practical application, ECO₂RR has been intensively investigated over the last few years, with some achievements. In stark contrast, M–CO₂ batteries, especially aqueous and hybrid M–CO₂ batteries, offer the potential to combine energy storage and ECO₂RR into an integrated system, but their research is still in the early stages. This article gives an insightful review, comparison, and analysis of recent advances in ECO₂RR and M–CO₂ batteries, illustrating their similarities and differences, aiming to advance their development and innovation. Considering the crucial role of well‐designed functional materials in facilitating ECO₂RR and M–CO₂ batteries, special attention is paid to the development of rational design strategies for functional materials and components, such as electrodes/catalysts, electrolytes, and membranes/separators, at the industrial level and their impact on CO₂ conversion. Moreover, future perspectives and research suggestions for ECO₂RR and M–CO₂ batteries are presented to facilitate practical applications.